Manufacturing and Supply Chain Report for Sept. 16, 2020

Lineage Logistics to expand in North Charleston, create jobs

One of the world’s largest refrigerated warehouse companies is expanding its North Charleston facilities with a $34 million investment that is expected to create 36 jobs. By growing its North Charleston operations, the company hopes to increase its ability to meet customer needs for efficiency of temperature-controlled supply chains around the world. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)

Direct L.A. flight connects Charleston to Asian market

In October, JetBlue will begin offering direct flights from Charleston International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport, and Charleston County Aviation Authority CEO Elliott Summey anticipates the route will bring the economy more business from Asian manufacturers. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)

Swimming pool manufacturer to buy soon-to-close boat plant in Marion

Global swimming pool manufacturer Leisure Pools Group will purchase a 225,000-square-foot facility in Marion opened by yacht builder Groupe Beneteau in 1986 and will retain 70 of the Beneteau employees. Group Beneteau announced in June that the plant would close by year’s end. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Largest ship ever to visit East Coast calling on Charleston

A 1,200-foot containership, the largest ever to call on Charleston, is anticipated to arrive at the Wando Welch Terminal on Sunday. The ship is roughly the size of eight Statues of Liberty stacked crown to toe. (Charleston Regional Business Report)

Data center makes $200M commitment to Greenville site

Southeastern tech company DC Blox will build a Tier III data center, its fifth across four states, in Greenville’s Global Business Park with an expected investment of more than $200 million. Brasfield & Gorrie will be general contractors for the construction project, expected to be complete in the third quarter of 2021. (GSA Business Report)

CU-ICAR to build first technology neighborhood in 15 years

Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research is using a $2 million national economic development grant to support building a new structure in its first new technology neighborhood in 15 years. The first building on the site, a multitenant 40,000-square-foot high-bay facility, features flexible laboratory and office space. (GSA Business Report)

More than $300,000 in counterfeit products seized from Midlands business

An investigation into Richland County business NewImageSC and its operator began in March, according to the S.C. Secretary of State’s office. The business included a storefront at 1945 Decker Blvd. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Michelin names Young Apprenticeship Program students

Michelin recognized this year’s class of Young Apprenticeship Program students at a “signing day event” hosted at Anderson’s Bleckley Inn on Friday. The apprentices are high school students who have accepted part-time positions at Michelin’s rubber mixing facility in Starr. (GSA Business Report)